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Michigan is leading a revolutionary approach to women's health through "Metapause," a groundbreaking menopause policy initiative championed by Governor Whitmer and the Michigan Women's Commission. Executive Director Cheryl Bergman shares how they're transforming workplace policies, healthcare access, and public education to support women through perimenopause and menopause.
• The Michigan Women's Commission, established in 1968, surveys women's challenges and makes policy recommendations to address them
• 60% of Governor Whitmer's executive team are women of menopausal age, bringing personal understanding to the policy initiative
• Mayo Clinic research shows $1.8 billion is lost annually in productivity due to menopause symptoms
• The "Metapause" movement includes statewide town halls featuring menopause experts and involves women legislators to hear directly from constituents
• Top workplace policy recommendations include menopause champions in workplaces, better ventilation/cooling, and flexible schedules
• $2.5 million has been recommended in the Michigan Senate budget for physician education and public awareness
• Perimenopause can begin as early as age 37, making education for younger women essential
• The movement is building partnerships with healthcare systems including Henry Ford and Corewell
Join our Facebook group, The Pause Diaries, for information on how to get involved with Michigan's menopause movement and connect with a supportive community of women sharing this journey.
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